Isaak Davies found the back of the net at Cardiff City Stadium for the first time since January 2022, securing a crucial point for the Bluebirds in a 1-1 draw against Sheffield Wednesday.
After a spell on loan at Belgian team Kortrijk last season, Davies returned from a long injury layoff to make a significant impact. His goal in the first half put Cardiff in the lead and ultimately helped them secure a point that pushed them two points clear of the relegation zone.
Wednesday manager Danny Rohl had stated before the match that his team would need to win six out of their remaining eight games to have a chance at reaching the play-offs. Despite falling behind, his side fought back in the second half to salvage a draw.
Cardiff manager Omer Riza believed his team would likely need 11 points from their final eight matches to avoid relegation. He opted for a lineup with three wingers supporting lone striker Youssef Salech, aiming for a consecutive victory following their previous win against Blackburn.
Of the three wingers, Davies made the biggest impact, causing problems for Wednesday's defense from the right flank. He broke the deadlock in the 21st minute with a well-taken goal, cutting inside from the right before slotting the ball past the goalkeeper with his left foot.
Cardiff dominated the first half, keeping Wednesday on the back foot and preventing them from registering a shot. Rohl responded by making three changes at halftime, bringing on fresh legs to inject energy and intensity into his team.
Wednesday raised their game in the second half, equalizing just after the hour mark through a header by Michael Ihiekwe from a corner. The goal spurred both teams to push for a winner in the remaining time.
There were chances at both ends, with Charles making a crucial save to deny Davies and Salech narrowly missing a header. El Ghazi had a late opportunity for Cardiff, but the match ended in a draw. Cardiff now face two away fixtures against QPR and Preston before a crucial home game against Stoke in the relegation battle.